Catapres, sold under the generic name Clonidine, is a medication used to lower blood pressure. The medication works by decreasing the levels of certain chemicals in your blood. Vitamin B-12 is an essential vitamin that your body uses for several metabolic processes. No known interaction between Catapres and vitamin B-12 exists; however, check with your physician before combining them.
Catapres
Physicians usually prescribe Catapress for hypertension, or high blood pressure. The medication allows your blood vessels to relax, which helps your heart beat slower. Other forms of clonidine are prescribed to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Though it doesn't often cause symptoms, high blood pressure increases the risk of stroke, heart attack and kidney disease. Along with Catapress, physicians will recommend diet and lifestyle changes to help lower high blood pressure.
Potential Interactions
Although Catapres doesn't interact with vitamin B-12, it can interact with many different medications. It can interact with antidepressants, beta-blockers, digitalis and many other heart and blood pressure medications. Drugs that cause drowsiness, such as cold medicines, pain relievers, muscle relaxers, seizure and psychiatric medications can add to the drowsiness side effect caused by Catapres. Make sure your doctor is aware of the medications you take, including over-the-counter medications. If you are unsure of potential interactions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B-12 is naturally present in various foods, but can also be taken as a supplement for individuals who are deficient. Your body uses vitamin B-12 to produce red blood cells, for DNA synthesis and for proper neurological functioning. Vitamin B-12 deficiency can cause anemia, fatigue, weakness, weight loss and constipation. Other neurological symptoms of a deficiency include numbness, trouble maintaining balance, depression, confusion and poor memory. Adults require 2.4 micrograms of vitamin B-12 per day.
Potential Interactions
Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form of vitamin B-12 that is prescribed to people who don't get enough of the vitamin through food. There isn't any reported negative interactions between regular vitamin B12 or cyanocobalmin and Catapres; however, other medications can interact with this form of the vitamin. Potassium chloride, arsenic trioxide and sodium chloride all have the potential for interaction with cyanocobalamin. Inform your doctor of any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking.
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